Operating permit for trailer company involved in NSE accident suspended two weeks

PUTRAJAYA: The permit for all 28 vehicles under a Kedah-based company involved in a fatal accident near the Menora tunnel has been suspended for two weeks.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the entire fleet of Usaha Maju Trading Sdn Bhd will be grounded while the ministry conducts an audit on the firm.

"The ministry has decided to suspend the permit immediately for all 28 vehicles registered to this company for two weeks while we conduct an audit.

"They are not allowed to operate within this period and I have instructed the JPJ (Road Transport Department) to ensure that all the vehicles are grounded at its depot.

"After the audit is conducted, the company will be issued a show cause letter," said Loke at a press conference at his ministry here on Monday (Oct 8).

Loke said depending on the outcome of the audit, the company could have the licence for its operations revoked.

"I am taking this strict action to send a message to all companies and vehicle operators. You must be responsible towards road safety whenever you are on the road.

"We cannot take safety for granted. Enough is enough. When drivers cause deaths on the roads, companies must be held liable as well," said Loke.

On Saturday, a trailer belonging to Usaha Maju Trading collided into several vehicles on the North-South Expressway when its driver lost control of the vehicle.

The collision caused a Kia Forte carrying a family of five to burst into flames, killing everyone on board.

Loke said the 41-year-old driver is under police custody and had tested positive for methamphetamines and added that had 28 traffic-related summonses to his name.

"JPJ has already suspended his driving licence," said Loke.